Low COVID-19 numbers may be because persons are ashamed or fearful of having the virus

Shame and fear of being tested positive for COVID-19 may be the reason why Guyana is reporting low numbers of the disease, Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence suggested Thursday.

The number of known COVID-19 cases in Guyana now stands as 70, with five persons in the Intensive Care Unit, the Ministry of Public Health stated Thursday; there have been no more deaths.

“We continue to have the challenge with under-reporting from persons who have been in contact with a COVID-19 case mainly due to the associated stigma,” Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence stated.

“I assure you my fellow Guyanese this attitude will take us nowhere except to add to our death toll. Guyanese, lives matter and because of this, if we stand together, we will stand stronger.”

She encouraged those who are afraid of the associated stigma to “be brave, come forward, help us to help you and your family stay alive.”

“I urge you to stop taking matters in your own hands, COVID-19 is serious business. Please call the COVID-19 hotline or utilize the App.”

The confirmed cases are as a result of 375 tests. Seven persons have died of the disease. The number of persons who have recovered is now 12.

The Ministry reported that 17 persons are in institutional quarantine and 51 are in isolation.

These other details were provided.

• Of the 70 positive COVID-19 cases, 66 persons contracted the virus right here in Guyana.
• For the period under review, 23 persons were admitted to our COVID-19 ICU.
• Of the 23, 12 improved and have been removed to a Step-Down Facility.